Common Misconceptions About Filing Lawsuits

Important information about filing a lawsuit in Gulf Shores

Filing a lawsuit in Daphne, Foley, Fairhope, Orange Beach, and the Mobile area is a serious undertaking requiring time, effort, and—most importantly—good legal representation.  An experienced attorney will consult with you in advance of the filing, look at all the facts of your claim, and advise you of your chances for success.

Common misconceptions

Many people have misconceptions about filing lawsuits.  Here are some clarifications that will help you approach the process intelligently.

• Lawsuits are a frivolous waste of time—This is not true.  A lawsuit can have a profound impact on your livelihood, your financial position, and your future prospects, and anyone involved in a lawsuit should take it very seriously.
• I cannot afford a lawyer—While some lawyers may seem expensive, you need to weigh the cost of good legal representation against the possible costs of losing the case due to a lack of good legal guidance.  If your case is regarding a maritime injury you sustained due to someone else's negligence, you should ask your attorney if they can take your case on a contingency fee basis.  Many attorneys will not charge you legal fees for personal injury cases unless they collect damages on your behalf. 
• Lawsuits drag on forever—Contrary to how it may seem, the legal system and courts put pressure on contending parties to settle their differences as quickly as possible.
• A lawsuit will demand too much of my time—Good lawyers know your time is precious, and can move quickly or press for more time depending on their your needs.  An experienced attorney needs only the time necessary to prepare well to win the case.
• I will not know what to do in the courtroom—Court proceedings demand proper decorum and behavior.  A good attorney can advise you in advance of what to do, what not to do, how to dress and behave, and how to answer questions.
• Being involved in a lawsuit makes me look bad—Most lawsuits are filed for economic reasons, not personal ones.  There is no stigma attached to filing or answering a serious lawsuit.
• My opponent will pay my legal fees—While the law says you are entitled to legal fees in some cases, a judge may hesitate to award them unless your opponent makes a frivolous case.

Providing high quality legal assistance

Whether you are facing or filing a lawsuit in Daphne, Gulf Shores, Orange Beach, or Fairhope the Mobile attorneys of Jackson, Foster & Richardson, L.L.C. can provide valuable assistance to you.  To consult with a member of our law firm, please call us toll-free at 866-433-6699 or contact our firm online.  Whether you are in Mobile, Foley, Daphne, Orange Beach, Theodore, Grove Hill, Loxley, Fairhope, or another area of Alabama, our lawyers are here to help.